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Networking

This week, I have the opportunity to connect with a professional in my field and ask her my questions about her career, the field, and what it takes to “make it.” I want to ensure I make a great first impression so I have put a lot of time into preparing for my phone call with her. Part of my prep has been to think about what goes into making this a great conversation so, I am sharing some tips on how to have a successful professional interaction.

Do your research!

Find the professional’s bio and be familiar with his/her backgroud and professional story.

If the professional has started their own company, business, etc., research that as well.

Pull out some “fun facts” or things you have in common to show you are interested in him/her as an individual and not just a professional. This also helps ease into the business conversation.

Be prepared

Once you have done your background research, create a list of questions and topics you want to discuss. Come up with new and inventive questions! By this, I mean make sure your questions are not answered by the information readily available to you in the research you did in step one. If you have questions about career progression, ask for suggestions on how to gain experience, what credentials are important in the field, and what training/educational opportunities are available.

Be persistent, yet patient and polite

It may take a few tries before hearing back from the person or being able to schedule a time to meet with him/her. Make sure you ask the professional, “When is best for your schedule?” and find a way to meet the time they give you.

It may not be possible to meet the person as quickly as you hope. The fact you are establishing contact via email or phone before being able to meet in a person is a great accomplishment and first step so keep in touch with the individual!

Be focused

Whether meeting in person or speaking over the phone, environment is key. Be sure to choose a location with minimal distractions and not a lot of noise: You want to ensure you will stay engaged in the conversation (and be able to hear!).

If the meeting is taking place in person and not at the professional’s office, choose a small, quiet coffee shop or bistro where you can sit and talk easily.

If you will be speaking over the phone, be sure you are sitting somewhere you will not be distracted by other people.

Close the door to your office, room, etc.

Silence notifications on your phone

Do not have things open on your computer which will distract you

Express your gratitude and thanks!

The professional you are connecting with no doubt has a busy schedule because he/she is successful in the field (after all, that is why you are making the connection!). Be sure to thank him/her each time you connect.

For example, “Thank you for be so willing to speak/meet with me. I greatly appreciate you taking the time out of your busy schedule.”

You can always send a thank you note! People appreciate you taking the time to recognize their effort.

I hope these tips give you a boost of confidence to make a positive and successful professional interaction. Now get out there and start networking! If you have questions about any of these tips or something I did not mention, please leave a comment!